Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist - Data Analytics & AI

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist to lead data analytics and AI-driven farming solutions. You will design models, build pipelines, and deliver insights from weather, soil, and imagery data.

This fully remote role offers competitive annual compensation in ZAR, with opportunities to collaborate with a global team and drive measurable improvements in crop yields and resource efficiency.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a quantitative field with AI/ML focus.
• 5+ years in data analytics, ML, and statistical modeling in agriculture preferred.
• Proficiency in Python or R and ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).

Responsibilities

• Analyze large agricultural datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Develop, test, and deploy ML models for predictive analytics (yield, disease).
• Design algorithms for resource management (water, fertilizer, pesticides).
• Create and maintain data pipelines for collection, cleaning, processing.
• Develop data visualization tools and dashboards for stakeholders.
• Collaborate with agronomists and farmers to translate needs into data solutions.
• Stay updated with AI and precision agriculture advances.
• Provide remote support and guidance on precision farming tools.
• Contribute to strategic direction of precision agriculture initiatives.
• Document methodologies, code, and results.

Skills

Data analytics

Machine learning

Statistical modeling

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Data Science / related field

Tools

Python

R

TensorFlow

PyTorch

scikit-learn

Spark

Hadoop

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of agricultural technology and is seeking a highly skilled Remote Precision Agriculture Specialist with expertise in data analytics and artificial intelligence. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your skills from anywhere. You will play a crucial role in developing and implementing cutting-edge solutions that enhance farm efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and improve crop yields through data-driven insights. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agricultural data science, machine learning, and a passion for applying technology to solve complex farming challenges. You will be working with vast datasets, complex algorithms, and collaborating with a global team of experts.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyzing large agricultural datasets (weather, soil, yield, satellite imagery) to identify trends and actionable insights.
• Developing, testing, and deploying machine learning models for predictive analytics, such as yield prediction, disease detection, and optimal planting/harvesting times.
• Designing and implementing algorithms for resource management optimization (water, fertilizer, pesticides).
• Creating and maintaining data pipelines for collecting, cleaning, and processing agricultural data.
• Developing data visualization tools and dashboards to communicate complex findings to stakeholders.
• Collaborating with agronomists and farmers to understand their needs and translate them into data solutions.
• Staying current with the latest advancements in AI, machine learning, and precision agriculture technologies.
• Providing remote technical support and guidance on precision farming tools and data interpretation.
• Contributing to the strategic direction of our precision agriculture initiatives.
• Documenting methodologies, code, and results thoroughly.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Data Science, Computer Science, Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, or a related quantitative field with a focus on AI/ML.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in data analytics, machine learning, and statistical modeling, preferably within the agricultural sector.
• Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and relevant libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn).
• Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Spark, Hadoop) and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with GIS software and remote sensing data analysis.
• Excellent understanding of agricultural principles and practices.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a keen attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, capable of explaining technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• A dedicated home office setup with reliable high-speed internet access.

Benefits

This is a remote contract position offering a highly competitive annual rate of up to ZAR , commensurate with skills and experience. As a contractor, you will enjoy flexibility in your work schedule. Our client values innovation and provides opportunities to work on groundbreaking projects that are shaping the future of agriculture. You will be part of a global, forward-thinking team, contributing to sustainable farming practices worldwide. Access to a wide range of training resources and professional development opportunities will be provided.